Monday, December 04, 2017

Fired CEO sues Metro Nashville Airport Authority for wrongful termination

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — The former CEO of the Nashville International Airport is suing for wrongful termination.

Sanford Heisler Sharp filed a wrongful termination and retaliation lawsuit against Metro Nashville Airport Authority on behalf of fired former President and CEO Rob Wigington.

At the time Wigington was fired, the MNAA released a list of behaviors that they said led to a culture of "secrecy and concealment."

Read the lawsuit here and a copy of his employment agreement here. 

Story and photo:  http://fox17.com

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Cessna 402C, N2748Y

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Boston, Massachusetts

January 09, 2020: Aircraft experienced a propeller strike on landing at Barnstable Municipal Airport (KHYA), Hyannis, Massachusetts.

Hyannis Air Service Inc operating as Cape Air

https://registry.faa.gov/N2748Y

Date: 09-JAN-20
Time: 15:27:00Z
Regis#: N2748Y
Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Aircraft Model: 402
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: ON DEMAND
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 135
City: HYANNIS
State: MASSACHUSETTS

November 08, 2019: Aircraft lost braking capability on taxiway and went into the grass at Barnstable Municipal Airport (KHYA), Hyannis, Massachusetts.

Date: 08-NOV-19
Time: 14:18:00Z
Regis#: N2748Y
Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Aircraft Model: 402
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: NONE
Activity: COMMUTER
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 135
City: HYANNIS
State: MASSACHUSETTS

July 02, 2018: While on taxiway aircraft had cockpit fire at Nantucket Memorial Airport (KACK), Massachusetts.

Date: 02-JUL-18

Time: 14:00:00Z
Regis#: N2748Y
Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Aircraft Model: 402C
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: FIRE
Activity: ON DEMAND
Flight Phase: TAXI (TXI)
Operation: 135
Aircraft Operator: CAPE AIR
City: NANTUCKET
State: MASSACHUSETTS


View of damage to the windscreen
Federal Aviation Administration


Accident occurred December 04, 2017 at Barnstable Municipal Airport (KHYA), Hyannis, Massachusetts


Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Boston, Massachusetts

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf


Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: https://dms.ntsb.gov/pubdms


Location: Hyannis, MA
Accident Number: GAA18CA071
Date & Time: 12/04/2017, 1725 EST
Registration: N2748Y
Aircraft: CESSNA 402
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Birdstrike
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

Analysis 


According to the pilot, he took off at night, and during the initial climb about 800 ft above the ground, the airplane ran into a flock of birds. The pilot declared an emergency with the tower and landed the airplane without further incident.


The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wind screen and the windscreen frame.


The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. 


Probable Cause and Findings


The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:

Encounter with a flock of birds during takeoff at night, resulting in multiple bird strikes and structural damage. 

Findings


Environmental issues

Animal(s)/bird(s) - Effect on operation (Cause)
Dark - Effect on operation

Factual Information


History of Flight


Initial climb

Birdstrike (Defining event)

According to the pilot, he took off at night, and during the initial climb about 800ft above the ground, the airplane ran into a flock of birds. The pilot declared an emergency with the tower and landed the airplane without further incident.


The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wind screen and the windscreen frame.


The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. 


Pilot Information


Certificate: Airline Transport; Flight Instructor; Commercial

Age: 36, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane Single-engine; Instrument Airplane
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 06/28/2017
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 10/31/2017
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 6400 hours (Total, all aircraft), 5000 hours (Total, this make and model), 5900 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 24 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 4 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information


Aircraft Manufacturer: CESSNA

Registration: N2748Y
Model/Series: 402 C
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1979
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 402C0248
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats: 10
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 11/05/2017, AAIP
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 7250 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 2 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 33449.6 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: CONT MOTOR
ELT: C91  installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: TSIO-520-VB
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 325 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Commuter Air Carrier (135); Flag carrier (121) 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan


Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions

Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KHYA, 55 ft msl
Observation Time: 2156 UTC
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 155°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 2200 ft agl
Temperature/Dew Point: 2°C / -1°C
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility:  10 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: Calm
Visibility (RVR):
Altimeter Setting: 30.47 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV):
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Hyannis, ME (HYA)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: Company VFR
Destination: Hyannis, ME (HYA)
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 1720 EST
Type of Airspace: Class D 

Airport Information


Airport:  Barnstable Municipal Airport-Boardman/Polando Field (HYA)

Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 54 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 06
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5425 ft / 150 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information


Crew Injuries: 1 None

Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None
Latitude, Longitude: 41.668889, -70.280278 (est)

Yukon–Kuskokwim Delta: Renfro Aviation Launches New Airline For Village Travel



There’s a new airline in the Y-K Delta, and its name might sound a little familiar.

Renfro Aviation has launched its very own Yute Commuter Services (YCS), which serves villages throughout the region. The new airline is not to be confused with Yute Air, the similarly named service that abruptly shut down earlier this year.

"A lot of the same people are here," said Andrew Flagg, who worked for Yute Air when it folded last spring and is now Yute Commuter Services’ station manager. Flagg noted that YCS has even moved into the old Yute Air terminal in Bethel.

YCS has scheduled service to tundra villages, upriver villages, Napaskiak, and Napakiak. Organizations can charter flights anywhere in rural Alaska; all of Renfro Aviation’s charter services to the villages have now been taken over by YCS. Renfro will continue to operate off-airport aircraft and specialty flights, like surveys for fish and game. To make a reservation or schedule a charter with YCS call 907-543-2684 or 907-543-2685.

Original article can be found here ➤ http://kyuk.org

Allegiant extends Punta Gorda schedule for Quad-Cities travelers

Quad-City International Airport in Moline


Quad-City travelers headed for the warmth of southern and western Florida will have nonstop service again to Punta Gorda and access to the flights through the summer months, Quad-City International Airport officials said Monday.

After an 19-month hiatus, on Friday Allegiant will resume the direct, twice weekly service between Moline and Punta Gorda. Allegiant recently extended the seasonal service into August 2018. It marks the third schedule extension since Allegiant first announced plans in May to resume the service.

The flights serve travelers bound to Punta Gorda as well as the Cape Coral, Port Charlotte, Ft. Myers, Sanibel Island and Naples areas.

"Our Quad-Cities passengers have really embraced this route, and we're excited to add more opportunities to visit this beautiful area," said Lukas Johnson, Allegiant's senior vice president of commercial.

Cathie Rochau, the airport's marketing director, said the extended schedule is welcomed news to travelers who have found other flight alternatives since the flight ended in April 2016. She said many have sought service from other regional airports, including Cedar Rapids and Peoria.

"People who live there like to come back and forth," she said, adding, "Those folks who do go back frequently are looking for the best fare, it's just that kind of traveler."

Resuming the service also will aid the airport's passenger retention efforts, Rochau added.

"I'm very pleased to see this extension in our schedule between the Quad-Cities and the Fort Myers area," said Bruce Carter, the airport's aviation director. "I know our regional area travelers will be happy to hear this news as well, as they do ask about the flights outside of the seasonal time frame."

According to Rochau, the service is re-starting with strong passenger numbers as Allegiant also brings in new larger, 186-seat jets to provide the service. As of Monday, she said four of the first five flights are booked with about 140 passengers, and more passengers are booked for the Christmas Day flight.

Allegiant services five nonstop cities via the Quad-Cities, including Las Vegas and Phoenix-Mesa and two other Florida destinations, Orlando-Sanford and St. Petersburg/Clearwater.

For more information, visit allegiant.com. Travelers also may call 309-764-9621 for a list of local counter service hours prior.

Original article can be found here ➤ http://qctimes.com

Brandon Muse takes first solo flight for Ozarka College program




Melbourne, Arkansas – Brandon Muse of Mountain View, AR has completed his first solo flight at the Melbourne Municipal Airport on November 14.

Muse makes the thirteenth Ozarka College student to complete the solo flight. He is currently working towards earning an Associate of Science degree in Aviation – Professional Pilot.

Prior to taking a solo flight, students are required to receive and log flight training for maneuvers and procedures ranging from proper flight preparation procedures to emergency procedures and equipment malfunctions. Additionally, they have to pass an aeronautical knowledge test.

Upon completing solo flights, students begin flying to larger airports with an instructor. Just prior to certification, students will fly solo to the Branson Airport.

For more information about flight training or the aviation program, please visit fly.ozarka.edu or call John Catlett, Aviation Director and Flight Instructor at Ozarka College, at 870-368-7926.

Original article can be found here ➤ http://www.ozarkradionews.com

Stoddard-Hamilton Glasair 1 RG, N779LH: Incident occurred December 02, 2017 at Rosamond Skypark Airport (L00), Kern County, California

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; California

Aircraft landed gear up.

http://registry.faa.gov/N779LH

Date: 02-DEC-17
Time: 19:00:00Z
Regis#: N779LH
Aircraft Make: EXPERIMENTAL
Aircraft Model: SHA GLASAIR 1 RG
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: UNKNOWN
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
City: ROSAMOND
State: CALIFORNIA

Boeing A75N1(PT17) Stearman, N1431C: Accident occurred December 03, 2017 at Chino Airport (KCNO), San Bernardino County, California

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Riverside, California

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: https://dms.ntsb.gov/pubdms

http://registry.faa.gov/N1431C

Location: Chino, CA
Accident Number: GAA18CA079
Date & Time: 12/03/2017, 1109 PST
Registration: N1431C
Aircraft: BOEING A75N1(PT17)
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

Analysis 

The pilot reported that the tailwheel-equipped biplane bounced during the initial touchdown of a three-point, touch-and-go landing. He added that the biplane settled back onto the runway and that he continued to maintain the runway centerline. Subsequently, when he raised the tail for takeoff, the biplane veered sharply to the right, and the lower left wing struck the ground.

The biplane sustained substantial damage to the lower left aileron.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the biplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot added that he may have "accidently hit the right brake" during the landing roll.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a touch-and-go landing.

Findings

Aircraft
Directional control - Not attained/maintained (Cause) 

Personnel issues
Aircraft control - Pilot (Cause)

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing
Abnormal runway contact

Takeoff
Loss of control on ground (Defining event)


Dragged wing/rotor/float/other

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 68, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Rear
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 02/08/2016
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 07/14/2016
Flight Time: (Estimated) 4450 hours (Total, all aircraft), 10 hours (Total, this make and model), 4100 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 15 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 9 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Flight Instructor Information

Certificate: Airline Transport; Flight Instructor
Age: 66, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Multi-engine Sea; Single-engine Land; Single-engine Sea
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane; Helicopter
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s):  Airplane Multi-engine; Airplane Single-engine; Helicopter; Instrument Airplane; Instrument Helicopter
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: BasicMed Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 07/14/2017
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 06/22/2017
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 5400 hours (Total, all aircraft), 420 hours (Total, this make and model), 5025 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 45 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 16 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information


Aircraft Manufacturer: BOEING
Registration: N1431C
Model/Series: A75N1(PT17) UNDESIGNATED
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1941
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Aerobatic; Normal
Serial Number: 75-1702
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 10/05/2017, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2950 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time:  3363 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Continental
ELT: C126 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: W670-6N
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 220 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan


Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KCNO, 650 ft msl
Observation Time: 1853 UTC
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 61°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Scattered / 20000 ft agl
Temperature/Dew Point: 19°C / 10°C
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility:  10 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: Calm
Visibility (RVR):
Altimeter Setting: 30.04 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV):
Precipitation and Obscuration:  No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: CORONA, CA (AJO)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Chino, CA (CNO)
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 1030 PST
Type of Airspace: Class D

Airport Information

Airport: CHINO (CNO)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 650 ft
Runway Surface Condition Unknown
Runway Used: 26R
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 4858 ft / 150 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Straight-in; Touch and Go

Wreckage and Impact Information


Crew Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude:   33.974444, -117.637222 (est)

Pipistrel Alpha Trainer, N721KL: Incident occurred December 02, 2017 at San Bernardino International Airport (KSBD), California

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; California

Aircraft taxiing, struck stop sign.

http://registry.faa.gov/N721KL

Date: 02-DEC-17
Time: 22:30:00Z
Regis#: N721KL
Aircraft Make: PIPISTREL
Aircraft Model: ALPHA TRAINER
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: UNKNOWN
Flight Phase: TAXI (TXI)
City: SAN BERNADINO
State: CALIFORNIA

Bellanca Citabria 7ECA, N2508Z: Incident occurred December 03, 2017 at Reid–Hillview Airport (KRHV), San Jose, Santa Clara County, California

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; California

Aircraft taxiing, struck sign with prop. Went into grass.

http://registry.faa.gov/N2508Z

Date: 04-DEC-17
Time: 02:15:00Z
Regis#: N2508Z
Aircraft Make: BELLANCA
Aircraft Model: 7ECA
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: UNKNOWN
Flight Phase: TAXI (TXI)
City: SAN JOSE
State: CALIFORNIA

Piper PA-32R-301, N8041B, Blue Skies Aviation LLC: Incident occurred December 03, 2017 at Robertson Field Airport (4B8), Plainville, Hartford County, Connecticut

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Connecticut

Aircraft landed gear up.

Blue Skies Aviation LLC: http://registry.faa.gov/N8041B

Date: 03-DEC-17
Time: 14:20:00Z
Regis#: N8041B
Aircraft Make: PIPER
Aircraft Model: PA 32R 301
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: UNKNOWN
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
City: PLAINVILLE
State: CONNECTICUT

Airbus A319-115, N9011P -and- Boeing 737-800, N344PP: Accident occurred December 03, 2017 at Miami International Airport (KMIA), Florida

NTSB Identification: DCA18CA043A 
Scheduled 14 CFR Part 121: Air Carrier operation of American Airlines
Accident occurred Sunday, December 03, 2017 in Miami, FL
Aircraft: AIRBUS A319 115, registration: N9011P

NTSB investigators will use data provided by various entities, including, but not limited to, the Federal Aviation Administration and/or the operator, and will not travel in support of this investigation to prepare this aircraft accident report.

NTSB Identification: DCA18CA043B
Scheduled 14 CFR Part 121: Air Carrier operation of American Airlines
Accident occurred Sunday, December 03, 2017 in Miami, FL
Aircraft: BOEING 737 800, registration: N344PP


NTSB investigators will use data provided by various entities, including, but not limited to, the Federal Aviation Administration and/or the operator, and will not travel in support of this investigation to prepare this aircraft accident report.

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Florida

Aircraft AAL1531 right wing struck AAL1613 vertical stabilizer on taxiing.

Date: 03-DEC-17
Time: 23:13:00Z
Regis#: N9011P
Aircraft Make: AIRBUS
Aircraft Model: A319 115
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: COMMERCIAL
Flight Phase: TAXI (TXI)
Flight Number: AAL1531
City: MIAMI
State: FLORIDA

Aircraft AAL1613 was struck by aircraft AAL1531 on taxiway.

Date: 03-DEC-17
Time: 23:13:00Z
Regis#: N344PP
Aircraft Make: BOEING
Aircraft Model: 737 800
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: COMMERCIAL
Flight Phase: TAXI (TXI)
Flight Number: AAL1613
City: MIAMI
State: FLORIDA

Piper PA-34-200T Seneca II, registered to Quick Gas Aviation LLC and was operated by the pilot, N8328V: Accident occurred December 03, 2017 at Thomasville Regional Airport (KTVI), Thomas County, Georgia

The National Transportation Safety Board did not travel to the scene of this accident.

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Atlanta, Georgia

Aviation Accident Factual Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf


Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: https://dms.ntsb.gov/pubdms 
 
http://registry.faa.gov/N8328V

Location: Thomasville, GA
Accident Number: ERA18LA044
Date & Time: 12/03/2017, 1530 EST
Registration: N8328V
Aircraft: PIPER PA34
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Landing gear collapse
Injuries: 4 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

On December 3, 2017, about 1530 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-34-200T, N8328V, was substantially damaged during landing at Thomasville Regional Airport (TVI), Thomasville, Georgia. The commercial pilot and three passengers were not injured. The airplane was registered to Quick Gas Aviation LLC and was operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Day, visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and an instrument flight rules flight plan was filed. The flight originated at P K Airpark (5W4), Raeford, North Carolina about 1300, and was destined for TVI.

The pilot reported that the enroute portion of the flight was uneventful. While lowering the landing gear for the approach at TVI, the left main gear did not indicate down and locked. The pilot cycled the landing gear three times, and then utilized the manual landing gear extension procedure, with no changes. Aerial observation of the landing gear by airport personnel indicated that all three-landing gear appeared to be down. The pilot continued the approach for a landing on runway 4. After touchdown, the left main gear collapsed. The airplane turned 90º to the left and came to a stop in the grass, adjacent to the runway.

The airplane was examined by an airframe and powerplant mechanic with inspection authorization. Structural damage to the left wing was confirmed. The left main landing gear was found partially retracted in the gear well. The other gear were extended and locked. The airplane was raised with a backhoe and the left main gear was manually pulled down. The down lock hooks would not engage and the drag links would not allow full extension. The mechanic then ran his finger through the drag link mating surfaces and a small stone, with grease on it, came out and fell into the grass. He was unable to find the object in the grass. The landing gear then extended and locked in a normal manner. After manually troubleshooting the landing gear, hydraulic power was applied and the gear extended normally with three green indications. The airplane was then moved to a hangar where an additional examination was performed by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector who noted no anomalies.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial
Age: 63, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 02/02/2017
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 02/02/2016
Flight Time:  2822 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1900 hours (Total, this make and model), 2514 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 34 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 19 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: PIPER
Registration: N8328V
Model/Series: PA34 200T
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1981
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 34-8170084
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats: 6
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 02/02/2016, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 4750 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 100 Hours
Engines: 2 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 4161 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: CONT MOTOR
ELT: Installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: TSIO-360-KB
Registered Owner: QUICK GAS AVIATION LLC
Rated Power: 220 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: TVI, 263 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1515 EST
Direction from Accident Site:
Lowest Cloud Condition: Scattered / 1800 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 8 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: / None
Wind Direction: 50°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.14 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 20°C / 15°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Raeford, NC (5W4)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: IFR
Destination: Thomasville, GA (TVI)
Type of Clearance: IFR
Departure Time: 1300 EST
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: Thomasville Regional (TVI)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 263 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 04
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 6004 ft / 101 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full Stop; Traffic Pattern

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 3 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 4 None

Latitude, Longitude:  30.901389, -83.881389 (est)

Piper PA-31 Navajo, registered to Luftladder Inc and operated by the pilot, N722CF: Accident occurred December 03, 2017 at Clark Regional Airport (KJVY), Jeffersonville, Indiana

The National Transportation Safety Board did not travel to the scene of this accident.

Additional Participating Entity:

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Indianapolis, Indiana

Aviation Accident Factual Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf


Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:  https://dms.ntsb.gov/pubdms

http://registry.faa.gov/N722CF

Location: Jeffersonville, IN
Accident Number: CEN18LA048
Date & Time: 12/03/2017, 1910 EST
Registration: N722CF
Aircraft: PIPER PA 31-310
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Landing gear not configured
Injuries: 3 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On December 3, 2017, about 1910 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-31-310, N722CF, was damaged during a wheels-up landing on runway 18 at the Clark Regional Airport (JVY), Jeffersonville, Indiana. The pilot and two passengers were not injured. The airplane received substantial damage to fuselage longerons and the aft flange of the main wing spar carry through. The aircraft was registered to Luftladder Inc. and operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time of the accident. A visual flight rules flight plan had been filed. The flight originated from the Wellsville Municipal Airport (ELZ), near Wellsville, New York, about 1630, with JVY as the intended destination.

The pilot reported that when the airplane was about 5 miles from JVY, he lowered the landing gear and the right main landing gear was slow to extend, but within a few seconds all three gear down indicator lights illuminated. A normal descent was made and when the airplane was over the runway about to flare, the right main landing gear light went out. The pilot initiated a go-around, increasing engine power, pitching for climb, and retracting the landing gear and flaps. He stated that the airplane may have settled after the flaps were retracted and he heard a noise as if a propeller blade had contacted something. He decided to discontinue the go-around and landed the airplane straight ahead, coming to a stop on the runway with the landing gear retracted.

After the accident the airplane landing gear was tested under the supervision of Federal Aviation Administration inspectors. Before the test, an o-ring was replaced on the hydraulic reservoir, but this would not have prevented the right main landing gear from extending. The gear retraction tests were performed satisfactorily, with no defects in the landing gear operation noted.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline Transport; Commercial
Age: 67, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane Multi-engine; Airplane Single-engine; Instrument Airplane
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 10/02/2017
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:  22516 hours (Total, all aircraft), 10481 hours (Total, this make and model), 22496 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 150 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 48 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 3 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: PIPER
Registration: N722CF
Model/Series: PA 31-310 UNDESIGNATED
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1973
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 31-7300968
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats: 7
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 10/18/2017, AAIP
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 6499 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 35 Hours
Engines: 2 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 13489 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: LYCOMING
ELT: C126 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: TIO-540-A2C
Registered Owner: LUFTLADDER INC
Rated Power: 310 hp
Operator: LUFTLADDER INC
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Commuter Air Carrier (135) 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Night/Dark
Observation Facility, Elevation: LOU
Distance from Accident Site: 10 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 2353 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 180°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 3 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: /
Wind Direction: 80°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: /
Altimeter Setting: 30.2 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 10°C / 2°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: WELLSVILLE, NY (ELZ)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: VFR
Destination: Jeffersonville, IN (JVY)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1630 EST
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: CLARK RGNL (JVY)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 474 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 18
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5500 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full Stop; Straight-in 

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 3 None
Latitude, Longitude:  38.365556, -85.738056